So close to Harrods you can almost smell the money, Le Metro is in a prime location for diners looking for an assortment of reasonably priced dining options amongst the hustle and bustle of one of London’s most distinguished areas.

The Venue
Tucked away underground in the hub of west London, Le Metro’s steps descend into a vault-like venue with cosy crevices in which to tuck yourself away. Officially part of the Levin Hotel, the restaurant is also available to the general public, who can settle into a spot decked out in gold and green with round wooden tables, a polished wooden floor, tan leather sofas and comfy paisley chairs. The bistro is also, of course, supplemented by a large bar with plenty of booze.

The Atmosphere
Perfect for a post-shopping bite or a catch up with friends, Le Metro is filled with the kind of well-dressed west London dwellers you might expect, as well as The Levin's guests and, surprisingly, various trendy artistic types. The staff are polite and helpful, and subtle background music adds to the friendly ambiance.

The Food
A grazing menu is available for those not hungry enough for a full meal, with appetising dishes such as honey glazed cocktail sausages, Welsh rarebit, sole goujons, crispy squid with garlic aioli, prawn cocktail with avocado and smoked salmon cured in beetroot, all for between £4 and £6. The mushroom butter with toasted bread is delicious with delicate, woody tones combined with a creamy aftertaste that is perfect on top of the well-grilled bread. The honey glazed sausages could do with a touch more honey, as much of it evaporates during cooking, but the portions are well-sized and appetising.

Main courses comprise a range of undemanding, homemade classics, with the likes of shepherd’s pie, fish and chips and sausages and mash with onion gravy on offer. Grilled salmon with basil pesto and french beans is light, well cooked and nicely complemented by the basil pesto, adding an extra dimension to what can be a bland fish. The best-selling Le Metro sandwich is large and appetising with chicken, basil pesto, mozzarella and tomato stuffed into a huge bun. Although it is tasty, the dish is very heavy and would be improved by serving the chicken warm rather than cold. Other options on the menu include the Le Metro beef burger, chicken caesar salad and rib-eye steak, all of which come in at between £12 and £18.

The puddings are all available for £6 aside, from an £8.50 cheeseboard. Options include gluten-free bitter chocolate torte, plum and apple crumble and vanilla or chocolate ice cream. A modestly-sized lemon tart served with crème fraiche is light, sweet and beautifully decorated, combining just the right balance of sharpness and sugar. The gingerbread and rhubarb compote is much heavier; two slices of rich, dark gingerbread are served with unsweetened rhubarb on top, for a dish that threatens to be a touch too much.

The Drink
Le Metro offers a selection of white, red and sparkling wine options, with the vast majority coming from France, and all served at unexpectedly affordable prices. With many wines by the bottle and by the glass, the restaurant also surprises by offering a few by the half bottle too, which is the kind of flexibility that's probably received well around these parts. La Maglia Rosa, Pinot Grigio is something of a steal at £18, boasting a characteristic crispness that works well with the salmon.

The Last Word
Le Metro's menu might not be the most adventurous but this cosy bistro in the heart of west London offers value for money in a notoriously pricey area.

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